Negotiators move closer to global treaty on plastic pollution in South Korea

Negotiators in Busan, South Korea, are nearing an agreement on a global treaty to combat plastic pollution. More countries are supporting efforts to address total plastic production, with over 100 backing Panama's compromise proposal that avoids setting a production cap. The proposal suggests establishing a global target at a future meeting, which has drawn opposition from some plastic-producing nations, including Saudi Arabia. The committee chair has released draft treaty text that includes Panama's proposal, indicating a potential path forward. Discussions will continue as negotiators review the draft and aim to finalize treaty articles before the meeting concludes. Environmental groups are urging stronger commitments from negotiators as global plastic production is projected to rise significantly by 2040.